Greece will face widespread disruption on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, as a 24-hour nationwide strike, organized by public sector union ADEDY, includes participation from air traffic controllers.
The Greek Air Traffic Controllers Association (EEEKE) has confirmed its involvement, leading to severe impacts on air traffic services throughout the day. Only essential flights, such as those transiting the Athens Flight Information Region, carrying heads of state, emergency medical transport, and humanitarian aid flights, will operate.
The strike centers on ADEDY’s demand for the reinstatement of the "13th and 14th salaries" for public sector workers, bonuses equivalent to an extra two months' pay.
These bonuses, standard for private sector employees, were eliminated for public sector workers during Greece’s economic crisis.
Despite ongoing demands from public sector unions, the government has resisted reinstating these benefits.
Bank of Greece Governor Yannis Stournaras recently ruled out any discussion on the matter.
In addition to the salary reinstatement, ADEDY is demanding regular salary increases to address the rising cost of living, arguing that public sector wages have stagnated for over a decade.
The union also highlights the growing housing crisis, particularly affecting public sector workers in tourist-heavy regions, where some are reportedly living in tents, cars, or schools due to high rent prices. ADEDY also criticizes the government for prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthy.